Forum for Science, Industry and Business

Beta lactones as novel antivirulence treatment against bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus and MRSA

14.10.2014

Beta lactones are synthetically produced small molecules that tremendously reduce the pathogenicity of Staphylococcus aureus and MRSA. They act by inhibiting the caseinolytic protease P (ClpP), a key regulator of multiple virulence factors. Thereby the production of detrimental bacterial toxins (i.e. hemolysins, toxic shock syndrome toxin, enterotoxins) is prevented resulting in disarming the bacteria during infection. Bacterial killing and clearance can therefore be achieved through the action of the immune system.
Importantly, the concept of antivirulence prevents both the biggest challenges in antibiotic treatment today: resistance development and side effects. This also allows for longer treatment periods.

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Cellulose obtained from wood has amazing material properties. Empa researchers are now equipping the biodegradable material with additional functionalities to produce implants for cartilage diseases using 3D printing.

It all starts with an ear. Empa researcher Michael Hausmann removes the object shaped like a human ear from the 3D printer and explains:

The phenomenon of so-called superlubricity is known, but so far the explanation at the atomic level has been missing: for example, how does extremely low friction occur in bearings? Researchers from the Fraunhofer Institutes IWM and IWS jointly deciphered a universal mechanism of superlubricity for certain diamond-like carbon layers in combination with organic lubricants. Based on this knowledge, it is now possible to formulate design rules for supra lubricating layer-lubricant combinations. The results are presented in an article in Nature Communications, volume 10.

One of the most important prerequisites for sustainable and environmentally friendly mobility is minimizing friction. Research and industry have been dedicated...